West Dean to the Trundle Walk – 14th January 2023

There were 17 of us who set out from the Selsey Arms at West Dean, a good turnout considering the forecast … cold, windy and wet all morning.

First, we took a look at the river Lavant to see if it was passable. Definitely not was the answer! The usually pretty insignificant river was in full spate, fuelled by the rain falling on the Downs in recent weeks, the water was cascading down towards Chichester and then out to sea.

We headed off, walking on the Centurian Way cycle track. There were many new lakes and small rivers on both sides of the track!

Turning off the cycle track we climbed towards the Trundle, with the aim of getting to the top and admiring the spectacular views … ha!  We gathered by the mobile coffee shop, sheltered by trees and took a unanimous decision … to enjoy a coffee and then head for home; the Trundle was surrounded by cloud and rain, and we’d seen quite enough of that!

Descending through the woods and then back along the cycle track we reached the Selsey Arms, peeled off our soggy clothing and boots and headed for the bar … and the rain stopped!

There were 28 of us for lunch in a big room at the back of the bar. Good food and plenty to chat about.

Gina Hamlyn